South Africa: Seychelles, Madagascar, Oman & UAE

With its lush rainforests and beaches bordering coral reefs, Pointe des Galets, Réunion will dazzle you with its natural splendor. This island in the Indian Ocean is a French department and is known for Piton de la Fournaise, a climbable active volcano that rises to 8,635 ft. When you’re not hiking through the Bélouve Forest or laying back on l’Hermitage beach, you can visit the Aquarium of Réunion or stop by the Jardin de l’Etat, a botanical garden opened in 1773.

Immerse yourself in Madasgascar’s largest and most popular destination, Nosy Be. This “Big Island” off the northwest coast is famous for its natural splendor and Ylang Ylang trees that make up a major part of the local economy. Spend the day hanging out with lemurs and chameleons at the Lokobe Reserve. Indulge in local cuisine like the diverse and delectable variations of Laoka. Then brave the highest peak on the island at Mont Lokobe or relax on the beaches of Befotaka Bay.

Take a sabbatical in the Seychelles capital of Victoria. Located on Mahé Island in the Indian Ocean, it’s famous for its exports of vanilla and coconut oil. Take a stroll through the Seychelle National Botanical Gardens full of flora, fauna and fruit bats. Stop by the Selwyn-Clarke Market for some street shopping. Try some local Ladob, a dish that can be served either sweet or savory. Then settle in for some sun at Beau Vallon Beach or visit the Navasakthi Vinayagar hindu temple.

La Digue, though the Seychelles' third-most inhabited island, feels like a paradise untouched by time. Much of the island is undeveloped and guests and locals alike often bicycle between points of interest – and there are many of those. Quiet bays, spectacularly beautiful beaches, large granite rocks rising from azure waters and a hilly jungle interior await your exploration. Paradise seekers and sun worshippers need to look no further than this small island in the Indian Ocean.

View Muscat from above by traveling on the Corniche and head out along the scenic Batinah coast. The medieval Nakhl Fort, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers magnificent views of the mountains and oasis below. The colorful Sultan’s palace and the Jelali and Merani forts are worth visiting, and if you seek to experience Omani culture, a stroll through the markets and narrow alleys is ideal. Exquisite local silver jewelry, exotic spices and handicrafts abound in the markets to tempt shoppers.

Experience the blending of traditional Arab culture and modern western culture in Dubai. Gaze skyward to see the tallest building in the world, the 2,722-feet-high futuristic Burj Khalifa tower, or walk over to the impressive Jumeirah Mosque. Seek out jet-set haunts or stroll through the heart of the old city, Dubai Creek, which is home to the Dubai museum as well as the labyrinth alleyways of gold, spice and textile souks, where bargaining is part of the fun and ritual.

Experience the blending of traditional Arab culture and modern western culture in Dubai. Gaze skyward to see the tallest building in the world, the 2,722-feet-high futuristic Burj Khalifa tower, or walk over to the impressive Jumeirah Mosque. Seek out jet-set haunts or stroll through the heart of the old city, Dubai Creek, which is home to the Dubai museum as well as the labyrinth alleyways of gold, spice and textile souks, where bargaining is part of the fun and ritual.

The world’s richest city boasts a wealth of culture, history and adventure, from the emirate’s old souks, where you can sip a fragrant Arabic coffee, to the rush of the world’s fastest rollercoaster. This 5,000-year-old metropolis is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and atmospheric back streets. Put your bargaining hat on for a friendly faceoff with the merchants at the souk to get deals on handicrafts, artwork, even spices and dried fruit for the cook back home.

Whether you’re a museum wanderer, an avid shopper or a beach goer, Doha has something for you. Doha is a city on the rise and has been for many years. There’s always new architecture to marvel at and new sights to see. From beautiful mosques to waterside parks, there so much to feast your eyes on—and so many restaurants to feast in. Stop by the National Museum of Qatar to see not just marvels inside, but an intricately designed modern building. Then wrap up your day with a visit to one of many Souqs